A nature-inspired binder with three-dimensional cross-linked networks for silicon-based anodes in lithium-ion batteries

Although silicon is one of the most prospective alternatives with ultrahigh theoretical capacity, its significant intrinsic volume changes seriously restricts its practical applications. Herein, a water-soluble polymer binder with a three dimensional (3D) network is exploited for stable silicon (Si) anode via in-situ thermal cross-linking of xanthan gum (XG) with polyacrylamide (PAM). Moreover, the cross-linked structure of c-XG-PAM gel binder with hydroxyl groups and amide groups remarkably enhances the adhesion on silicon and Cu current collector. As a result, the c-XG-PAM binder offers appealing electrochemical performance for SiNP electrodes (1104 mAh g(-1) after 1000 cycles) and SiC electrodes (stabilizing for over 400 cycles). The gel polymer binder provides a prospective avenue for pursuing the elongated cycling life of high capacity battery electrodes.